The Rouge river is the most popular in Quebec for kayakers and rafting fanatics. Paddlers of any level are able to run the river during the summer, but it’s another story when it comes to the flooding period. Its water flow often goes up to 700 cms, and the class 3 section becomes a class 4-5, which is run only by expert paddlers, as we have seen on stage 2 of the UNLEASHED competition (Boater X).

Watch last year Video

During the Rouge Challenge, the water flow is around 200-300 cms, and paddlers from all over Quebec enjoy the race against time in teams of 2. Because there are always many swimmers, a security team works hard during the competition. Fortunately, there is almost no serious danger on this section of the river.

The Reactionary, first rapid of the section, consists of a series of big waves that could put some competitors on edge right from the beginning. After this, it is really important to avoid the hole called the Monster that is on the outside of the curve if one doesn’t want to swim.

The kayakers paddle towards the gorge, composed of a series of big waves and deflectors created by the Macho, the Real Men Hole and the Mushroom. It’s in this chain of big waves, ending with the Washing Machine, that the best paddlers will save precious seconds to reach the finish line.

The final boater X in heats of 6 allows to classify the teammates who are now confronting each other to get as many points as possible for the Quebec Extreme Whitewater Race Series. Everybody is happy to arrive at the take-out beach where the cold beer is much appreciated… in cans or in the booties for those many ones who swam during the day!

During the evening, there is the award presentations for the winners (with a total of $1250) and, thanks to the many sponsors (New World Rafting, Werner, NRS, Stohlquist, Ottawa Paddle Shack, Camp de Base Mtl, Kayak Détail, Jumana Boards, Coke and Molson), a lot of door prizes are offered to the rest of the participants and volunteers.

The big Saturday night party at New World Rafting base camp became a tradition. The participants can drink together on the sound of the local DJ music until the early morning hours. The Advils are not to be forgotten for those who participate in the freestyle event held the next day.

For the second year in a row, the Rouge Freestyle Challenge takes places Sunday afternoon on a beautiful wave in the Rouge river Familly rapid. This wave offers a variety of possibilities for expert and novice paddlers.

An event part of the Freestyle Québec Series. It’s a fun and friendly competition with music and cool riverside atmosphere!

Also part of the program, free kayaking tips by Kayak Authentik and friendly SUP (stand-up paddle) boarder-cross in the Family rapid presented by Jumana Boards. Everybody is welcome to register !